During the 2019 Pokémon World Championships opening ceremonies, Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of The Pokémon Company, unveiled Sword & Shield, a new series coming to the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Included in the series are Pokémon V, powerful new cards that will play an important role in players strategies. Event attendees also received a preview of Zacian V and Zamazenta V, which will be available in the series upcoming first expansion. More details about the Pokémon TCG: Sword and Shield Series will be announced soon. Game Freak Director Junichi Masuda also showed up and revealed new battling info for the upcoming games Sword and Shield. High resolution press release pictures have been added to an Imageboard thread

NEW DETAILS FOR POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD AND NEXT SERIES IN THE POKÉMON TRADING CARD GAME UNVEILED AT 2019 POKÉMON WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Pokémon Video Game and TCG Announcements Made During Opening Ceremonies at Premier Competitive Pokémon Event ​​​​​​​

Today, The Pokémon Company International announced that Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will be the official video games used for competitive play during the 2020 Play! Pokémon Season and shared new game features that fans can look forward to in the highly anticipated titles. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield will launch November 15, 2019, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch™ system. In addition, The Pokémon Company International debuted the next series in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Sword & Shield, based on the upcoming video games as well as a new type of card, Pokémon V.


Battling in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield
In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, Trainers can connect to the internet and battle against each other in either Single or Double Battle formats in the Battle Stadium.

In the Battle Stadium, Pokémon Trainers can engage in Ranked Battles where they will face other Trainers and their Battle Teams from across the globe.

• Trainers will battle those with a similar rank and will earn points depending on the results of those battles.
• Each rank in Ranked Battles belongs to a specific tier, and Trainers can increase their rank by earning enough points.
• Trainers can check their own ranking in the Battle Stadium. They can also see how all of the participants placed in a competition on the smartphone version of Pokémon HOME.

In Casual Battles, it’s not about who wins or loses—it’s about becoming a better Trainer.

• One exciting aspect of Casual Battles is the ability to use certain Legendary Pokémon and Mythical Pokémon that are not eligible for Ranked Battles.

Features like Online Competitions and Rental Teams will also allow players to connect with other Trainers in different ways.

Trainers who participate in Online Competitions can battle in either Official Competitions or Friendly Competitions.

• In Official Competitions, participants will take part in special battles with a variety of different rules and restrictions.
• In Friendly Competitions, Trainers can join competitions hosted by other players or even host their own competitions. Regulations in Friendly Competitions are determined by the host.

Rental Teams enable Trainers to borrow Battle Teams by inputting IDs available online—or to make Battle Teams that they’ve put together available as Rental Teams to other Trainers all over the world. Up to five teams can be rented at once, and they can even be used in Ranked Battles.

Dynamaxing and Max Moves
The Dynamax phenomenon not only makes Pokémon huge—it can also give them a boost in power and sway the course of a battle. The Max Moves that only Dynamax Pokémon can use aren’t just powerful but also have impressive additional effects. For example, the Water-type Max Move, Max Geyser, will trigger the rain weather condition, and the Fighting-type Max Move, Max Knuckle, will increase the Attack of all allied Pokémon.

In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, a Trainer’s Pokémon can Dynamax if that Trainer has the Dynamax Band. Pokémon do not have to hold a special item to Dynamax. This means Trainers can choose which one of their Pokémon to Dynamax depending on what’s happening in the battle, and they can even have their Pokémon hold items that boost their strength so they can unleash Max Moves that are even more powerful.

New Abilities and Items
Many new Abilities have been discovered in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. One such Ability is Galarian Weezing’s Neutralizing Gas. This Ability neutralizes the ongoing effects of other Pokémon’s Abilities and even prevents Abilities from being triggered. Once the Pokémon with Neutralizing Gas leaves the battlefield, the Abilities of the other Pokémon will be activated again.


Some Pokémon have rare Abilities known as Hidden Abilities. In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, Pokémon caught in Max Raid Battles might have these Hidden Abilities. There is also a very small chance that Trainers will encounter a special Pokémon capable of Gigantamaxing in Max Raid Battles. While extremely rare, by attempting many different battles, there’s a chance they could even encounter a Pokémon that can Gigantamax and has a Hidden Ability. One such Hidden Ability is Corviknight’s Mirror Armor, which will bounce back any stat-lowering effects from an opposing Pokémon’s Abilities or moves.


New items that can be combined with specific moves to give Trainers an edge in battle will also be available in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. These items include Room Service and Eject Pack. When held by a Pokémon, Room Service will lower that Pokémon’s Speed when the move Trick Room is successfully used. When a Pokémon holding Eject Pack has any of its stats lowered, it will immediately switch out so another Pokémon can be sent in.

YouTube Clip - Prepare for battle in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaF9iJ9bzUM

YouTube Clip - The Pokémon Trading Card Game continues to eVolve with Pokémon V!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFq4yn8DLRI

For the first time in Japan, for a limited-time, those that are a member of the Pokémon Secret Club and how have pre-ordered Pocket Monsters Sword or Shield will have a chance to play a demo of the upcoming games at an event. At the event, players can challenge a Pokémon Gym, where Rurina, who specializes in water-type Pokémon, it the Gym Leader. This is a chance to experience a powerful battle featuring Dynamax!

The event will be held in Tokyo on September 21st, 2019 and 140 groups of 2 people each of Pokémon Secret Club members will be invited by lottery. If you want to participate, log in to Pokémon Secret Club now and apply! The application deadline ends on August 22nd, 2019 at 19:59.

About the Pokémon Secret Club (ポケモンひみつクラブ)

This is a limited time fan club that only those who have pre-ordered Pocket Monsters Sword or Shield can join and enjoy together until the release of the games. By becoming a club member, you can receive various benefits such as viewing members-only videos and special gifts!

To become a member of the Pokémon Secret Club

You can become a member by reserving Pocket Monsters Sword or Shield, entering the serial code issued at that time of order and your e-mail address on the "Pokémon Secret Club" official website when creating an account!

Source: https://www.pokemon.co.jp/info/2019/08/190816_gm01.html

Amazon has announced that those who pre-purchase the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Double Pack, will receive a download code for an exclusive in-game Gold Studded Leather Case for their Pokémon Trainer. The offer expires November 14th, 2019 and the download codes will be emailed starting on November 15th, 2019.


Source: https://www.amazon.com/Pokemon-Sword-Shield-Double-Pack-Nintendo/dp/B07ST7LY8F

The Pokémon Company has announced that they will reveal more information about Pokémon Sword and Shield on August 7, 2019 at 9am EST / 6am PDT / 22:00 JST / 1pm UTC. High resolution images and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.


Source: https://twitter.com/Pokemon_cojp/status/1158362132918022144

GALARIAN FORM POKÉMON REVEALED IN POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD

New Pokémon Evolutions and Rivals Also Announced ​​​​​​​

The Pokémon Company International and Nintendo revealed details today about the regional forms of Pokémon found in the highly anticipated upcoming video games, Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. New Pokémon Evolutions and information about the rivals that Trainers will face were also revealed. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield launch November 15, 2019, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch™ system.

Galarian Pokémon
Some Pokémon have adapted to the unique environment of one specific region and do not look or behave like Pokémon of the same species found elsewhere. Regional forms of Pokémon can be found in Galar as well, where they’re known as Galarian forms.


Galarian Weezing
Category: Poison Gas Pokémon
Type: Poison/Fairy
Height: 9'10"
Weight: 35.3 lbs.
Ability: Levitate/???

Galarian Weezing consumes polluted air and poisonous gases for sustenance. The by-product of this consumption is purified air, which is spewed out from the tops of its heads. The toxins accumulated within Weezing’s body form into concentrated poison gas clouds that leak out and drift around it. This gas is so potent that even a whiff is enough to stun and immobilize an opponent, making it Weezing’s best weapon during battles.


Galarian Zigzagoon
Category: Tiny Raccoon Pokémon
Type: Dark/Normal
Height: 1'4"
Weight: 38.6 lbs.
Ability: Pickup/Gluttony

The Zigzagoon of Galar never settle down and are known to inhabit all areas of the region, including fields, forests, and towns. There is some speculation that the zigzag movements of the Zigzagoon in other regions stem from the restless nature of Galarian Zigzagoon, considered to be the oldest branch of the species. Galarian Zigzagoon enjoy battles and will charge at people and other Pokémon in an attempt to provoke a fight. This behavior usually succeeds in starting a battle with other Pokémon, but humans tend to think Galarian Zigzagoon is just playing or showing affection.


Galarian Linoone
Category: Rushing Pokémon
Type: Dark/Normal
Height: 1'8"
Weight: 71.7 lbs.
Ability: Pickup/Gluttony

Galarian Linoone can reach speeds of over 60 miles per hour and can deliver devastating Tackles and Headbutts. With enough destructive force to knock away a car, these attacks can also throw Linoone off-balance if they miss. Galarian Linoone are rash and fearless and will recklessly pick fights even with opponents stronger than themselves. Their boldness and their tendency to attack opponents head on make Galarian Linoone very popular among the disaffected youth of the Galar region.

Galarian Form Evolutions
Living in the unique environment of the Galar region, some regional forms of Pokémon have developed unique Evolutions unseen in any other region.


Obstagoon
Category: Blocking Pokémon
Type: Dark/Normal
Height: 5'3"
Weight: 101.4 lbs.
Ability: Reckless/Guts


The Linoone of the Galar region live in harsh conditions and engage in fierce competition with others of their species. As a result, their survival instincts have been honed, leading to their Evolution into Obstagoon. Though Obstagoon is extremely combative, it often does not launch the first attack. It will taunt an opponent, goading it into attacking. When it does, Obstagoon will cross its arms and meet the oncoming attack with its Obstruct move. Obstagoon is especially skilled at throwing its opponents off guard and counterattacking with its sharp claws.

Form-Changing Pokémon
Some Pokémon can change their form, often because of the effects of certain items or their own Ability. Some of these form changes don’t just change the Pokémon’s appearance but also affect the types of its moves or even change its Ability.


Morpeko
Category: Two-Sided Pokémon
Type: Electric/Dark
Height: 1'
Weight: 6.6 lbs.
Ability: Hunger Switch

The sacs in Morpeko’s cheeks constantly generate electricity. This consumes energy, causing Morpeko to be constantly hungry. To satisfy this hunger, Morpeko always carries around Berry seeds to snack on. When experiencing prolonged hunger, Morpeko’s hormone balance changes. This causes its fur to change colors and triggers more aggressive and volatile behavior. The energy stored in its cheek sacs also changes from Electric type to Dark type. Morpeko’s Ability, Hunger Switch, is a new Ability that causes it to change its appearance each turn. Aura Wheel is Morpeko’s signature move, and it changes type depending on Morpeko’s form. In Full Belly Mode, the move is Electric type. In Hangry Mode, the move becomes Dark type.

Rivals of the Galar Region

Many Trainers from across the region take part in the Gym Challenge, a competition in which participants face the various Gyms of Galar with the hopes of becoming the Champion. Two rivals that Trainers will compete with on their adventures are Marnie and Bede.


Marnie
Marnie is a rival who has a competitive side, and together with her partner Morpeko, she aims to become the Champion of the Galar region. She has many passionate fans due to her calm and calculated battle strategies.


Bede
Bede is a rival who is skilled at Pokémon battles and has the pride to match. He has joined the Gym Challenge, having received his endorsement from Rose, the chairman of the Galar Pokémon League. While he clearly is aiming to become Champion, he seems to have other objectives as well.


Team Yell
Team Yell is a group of troublemakers who seem to appear everywhere and who attempt to get in the way at every opportunity. They want nothing more than for Marnie to become Champion, so they try to obstruct other challengers. They take over hotel lobbies, prevent challengers from accessing transportation, and even shout and distract opponents during battle. Whenever Marnie battles, these Team Yell Grunts are quick to appear, showing their support with Marnie-print towels and horns.

Poké Jobs Help Pokémon Grow
In the Galar region, people and Pokémon often work together. Corporations and universities request the help of Pokémon through Poké Jobs. Trainers can check for available Poké Jobs at the Rotomi in Pokémon Centers and will be able send Pokémon directly from their Boxes to any job they accept. Trainers will find that certain Pokémon types are suited for specific jobs. The experience gained while on the job will help Pokémon grow, and Trainers may even receive rare items as rewards.

Poké Jobs

In the Galar region, it is very common for people and Pokémon to work together. Many corporations and universities request the help of Pokémon through what are known as Poké Jobs.

You can check available Poké Jobs at the Rotomi in Pokémon Centers, and you’ll also be able to send Pokémon from your Boxes directly to any job you accept!

The Pokémon you send will help out with the job, and the experience will even help them grow. There are many different Poké Jobs available. You’ll find that certain Pokémon types are suited for specific jobs, too. Helping out for a long time or sending as many Pokémon as you can on a job can also net some good results. You might even receive some rare items!

Rotomi

This is Rotomi—your new helper in Pokémon Centers with a ton of features. You can accept jobs from the Rotomi you can find in every Pokémon Center around the Galar region. Rotomi have many different features aside from Poké Jobs, too—you can access your Boxes or even have a go at the Loto-ID!


Source: https://swordshield.pokemon.com/en-us/gameplay/pokejobs/

YouTube Clip - A New Team and New Rivals in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBiTpi8ecTE

YouTube Clip - A New Team and New Rivals in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield! - Japanese

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egCKrIMOYhM

A new addition to the Nintendo Switch family will arrive on September 20th, 2019 called the Nintendo Switch Lite. The Nintendo Switch Lite is compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go! This dedicated handheld device lets you play all Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode. It will be available in three different colors: Yellow, Gray and Turquoise. A separate Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition will be released on November 8th, 2019.

Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition

This Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition features stylish cyan and magenta buttons and illustrations of the two new Legendary Pokémon, Zacian and Zamazenta, from the upcoming Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games.

Nintendo Switch Lite is a compact, lightweight Nintendo Switch system dedicated to handheld play. With a built-in +Control Pad and a sleek, unibody design, it’s great for on-the-go gaming. Nintendo Switch Lite is compatible with the robust library of Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode. If you’re looking for a gaming system all your own, Nintendo Switch Lite is ready to hit the road whenever you are.

Includes: Nintendo Switch Lite system and Nintendo Switch AC adapter.
Price: $199.99 USD MSRP
Release Date: November 8th, 2019

Source: https://www.nintendo.com/switch/lite/

YouTube Clip - First Look at Nintendo Switch Lite: New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59yuBFRSZdg

Compare Differences Between the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite

Press Release - Nintendo Reveals Special Pokémon Edition of Newly Announced Nintendo Switch Lite System

A special Pokémon-themed version of the newly announced Nintendo Switch Lite system will be available in North America starting Nov. 8. The Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition features stylish cyan and magenta buttons and illustrations of the two new Legendary Pokémon from the upcoming Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games* for Nintendo Switch. This unique system will be available at a suggested retail price of $199.99, while supplies last.

“November is shaping up to be a big month for Pokémon fans, with the arrival of this special hardware followed by the launch of the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games one week later”

“November is shaping up to be a big month for Pokémon fans, with the arrival of this special hardware followed by the launch of the Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games one week later,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser. “The Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition will be a great gift for Pokémon fans who want to play the latest games on the go.”

In Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield, players will embark on a new adventure through the Galar region, where they’ll catch, battle and trade newly discovered Pokémon and uncover the mystery behind Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta. The Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games are available Nov. 15 for all Nintendo Switch systems.

The Nintendo Switch Lite device can play all games in the robust Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode**, although some games will have restrictions. The standard edition of the Nintendo Switch Lite system launches on Sept. 20 at a suggested retail price of $199.99 and will be available in three different colors: yellow, gray and turquoise.

Press Release - Nintendo Introduces Nintendo Switch Lite, a Device Dedicated to Handheld Game Play

A New Addition to the Nintendo Switch Family, Nintendo Switch Lite is Compact and Lightweight, Making it Easy to Take on the Go

In a video today, Nintendo introduced Nintendo Switch Lite, a device designed specifically to play Nintendo Switch games in handheld mode. The Nintendo Switch Lite system launches Sept. 20 at a suggested retail price of $199.99 and will be available in three different colors: yellow, gray and turquoise. A carrying case and screen protector set for Nintendo Switch Lite will also be available.

“Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”

“Adding Nintendo Switch Lite to the lineup gives gamers more color and price point options,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser. “Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”

The flagship Nintendo Switch launched in March 2017 and offers three different play modes: playing in TV mode by placing the system into a Nintendo Switch dock, playing cooperatively or competitively in tabletop mode by sharing Joy-Con controllers and playing in handheld mode. The system comes with either Gray Joy-Con controllers or Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers.

Nintendo Switch Lite has integrated controls and is smaller than the flagship version of Nintendo Switch. It has no kickstand and, as a dedicated handheld gaming device, does not support video output to a TV. Therefore, it does not come with a dock or HDMI cable. For a full list of the differences between Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, visit https://www.nintendo.com/switch/compare.

The new device can play all games in the robust Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode*, although some games will have restrictions. Compatible game modes will be listed on the back of game packaging and in Nintendo eShop.

Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite owners can get together to enjoy compatible multiplayer titles like Super Mario Maker 2, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate together via Nintendo Switch Online** or local wireless multiplayer***.

The Pokémon Company International revealed details today about the Gigantamax phenomenon in the highly anticipated upcoming video games Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield. Newly discovered Pokémon, details about the Galar Pokémon League, and more were also revealed. Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield launch November 15, 2019, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch system. High resolution artwork and screenshots from the press release have been added to an Imageboard thread.

GIGANTAMAX, A PHENOMENON THAT CHANGES SIZE AND APPEARANCE OF POKÉMON, REVEALED IN POKÉMON SWORD AND POKÉMON SHIELD ​​​​​

Newly Discovered Pokémon and Details about the Galar Pokémon League Also Announced ​​​​​​​

Gigantamax Pokémon
The previously discovered phenomenon known as Dynamaxing can only occur in specific areas of the Galar region. While Dynamaxing seems to be a phenomenon common to Pokémon from Galar, it’s been discovered that there’s a special phenomenon known as Gigantamaxing. Not only do Gigantamax Pokémon become bigger, but their appearance also changes. Like normal Dynamaxing, Gigantamaxing boosts the power of the Pokémon—and it also allows each Gigantamax Pokémon to use a unique move known as a G-Max Move. Each G-Max Move is particular to a specific species of Gigantamax Pokémon, and regular Dynamax Pokémon are not able to use G-Max Moves. Only certain species of Pokémon can Gigantamax—and even among such species, only rare specimens will be able to Gigantamax. The majority of Pokémon will keep their usual appearance when they Dynamax. Two Pokémon species revealed to have Gigantamaxing capabilities today are Drednaw and Corviknight.


Gigantamax Drednaw
Type: Water/Rock
Height: 78′9″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Strong Jaw / Shell Armor

The power of Gigantamaxing has allowed Drednaw to stand on its hind legs and become bipedal. From its standing position, it can come crashing down on opposing Pokémon and crush them with its massive body. Drednaw normally keeps its neck retracted within its shell, but when it attacks, it can rapidly shoot its neck out. Its jaws are also incredibly strong and can easily bite through huge metal towers. The strength of its jaws combined with the force of its neck gives Drednaw the power to punch a hole through a rocky mountain in a single strike. Water-type moves used by Gigantamax Drednaw will change to G-Max Stonesurge. G-Max Stonesurge doesn’t just deal damage to an opponent—it will scatter sharp rocks around the opponent and cause Pokémon entering the battlefield to take damage.


Gigantamax Corviknight
Type: Flying/Steel
Height: 45′11″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Pressure/Unnerve

Corviknight uses its massive wings to catch updrafts created by Gigantamax energy to hover in the air while it battles. The armor on its body has been reinforced, so attacks from Pokémon on the ground barely have any effect. Gigantamax energy has caused the armor covering Corviknight’s wings to separate and become blade birds, capable of flying independently. Flying-type moves used by Gigantamax Corviknight will change to G-Max Wind Rage, which removes any effects of moves like Reflect, Light Screen, Spikes, and Electric Terrain that the opponents may have.

Newly Discovered Pokémon of the Galar Region:

Alcremie
Category: Cream Pokémon
Type: Fairy
Height: 1′
Weight: 1.1 lbs.
Ability: Sweet Veil

Alcremie can produce whipped cream, which becomes richer the happier Alcremie is feeling. Desserts made using this cream are invariably delicious, so many pastry chefs strive to have an Alcremie as their partner. When attacked by an opponent, Alcremie will throw sweet-scented cream to distract them or temporarily blind them, giving itself time to escape.


Gigantamax Alcremie
Type: Fairy
Height: 98′5″+
Weight: Unknown
Ability: Sweet Veil

The cream pouring out of its body hardens when subjected to impacts—the stronger the impact, the harder it becomes—giving Alcremie an impressive resistance to physical attacks. Additionally, the giant “Berry” decorations on Alcremie’s body are as hard as diamonds, and it’s said that most attacks won’t even be able to leave a scratch. Alcremie will launch high-calorie cream missiles around itself to attack its opponents. Any Pokémon that touches this cream will be filled with energy and euphoria but at the same time will fall into a state of complete confusion. Fairy-type moves used by Gigantamax Alcremie will change to G-Max Finale, which will heal all Pokémon on Alcremie’s side while dealing damage to an opponent.


Yamper
Category: Puppy Pokémon
Type: Electric
Height: 1′
Weight: 29.8 lbs.
Ability: Ball Fetch

Yamper tends to be drawn to things that are moving quickly. It can chase after people, Pokémon, or even vehicles. It has an organ in its body that generates electricity, and it’s activated when Yamper runs around. Yamper can’t store the electricity it generates, so it’s often seen running around with electric sparks crackling around it. Yamper’s Ability, Ball Fetch, is a new Ability that comes into play when the Trainer throws a Poké Ball at a wild Pokémon but fails to catch it. If Yamper isn’t holding an item, it will fetch the first Poké Ball that failed to catch the Pokémon, regardless of what type of Poké Ball it is.


Rolycoly
Category: Coal Pokémon
Type: Rock
Height: 1′
Weight: 26.5 lbs.
Ability: Steam Engine / Heatproof

Rolycoly’s red eye can illuminate dark areas, while it uses the lump of coal attached to its body like a wheel to move through coal mines and caves. It is able to travel smoothly even over rough terrain. Until about one hundred years ago, every household in the Galar region had a Rolycoly. The families would use the coal that dropped off its body for cooking and heating their homes. Rolycoly’s Ability, Steam Engine, is a new Ability that provides a Speed stat boost if it’s hit with a Fire- or Water-type move during battle.


Duraludon
Category: Alloy Pokémon
Type: Steel/Dragon
Height: 5′11″
Weight: 88.2 lbs.
Ability: Light Metal / Heavy Metal

Duraludon live in caves and mountainous areas. Their two arms have slightly different shapes, and they use them to grind down rock surfaces for food. Its body is composed of incredibly durable metal but is also surprisingly light, so Duraludon can move quite quickly despite its appearance. Its body is susceptible to corrosion, however, and is known to rust easily. They share their habitat with Tyranitar, so these two Pokémon are often seen battling each other in the mountains of the Galar region.

The Galar Region Pokémon League

In the Galar region, where Pokémon battles are big entertainment, the region’s Pokémon League holds tournaments to determine the next Pokémon Champion. Players will have to compete with their rivals and challenge the Gym Leaders of the region for their chance to take part in this tournament.

The Gym Challenge is a true celebration of Pokémon battling. Participating Trainers strive to collect all eight Gym Badges, and only Pokémon Trainers who have been endorsed by specific people, such as Gym Leaders, can join. During the Gym Challenge, each challenger wears a special uniform for the occasion. Trainers can choose the combination of three numbers on their own uniform.

Once a year, a series of Pokémon battles known as the Champion Cup are held in the Galar region. The Champion Cup decides who will be able to challenge the reigning Champion for their seat. Exemplary Trainers throughout the region, such as those who successfully complete the Gym Challenge, can participate in the Champion Cup tournament. The Champion Cup battles are broadcast on TV in the Galar region and are watched by everyone.

People of the Galar Region:

Leon
Leon is the strongest Trainer in the Galar region, and he won the Championship in his first-ever Gym Challenge—without being defeated in battle a single time. To this day, his winning streak continues to grow, and his formidable talent for Pokémon battles is unmatched. He’s aided in his countless victories by his partner Charizard, and he’s known to go all out during battles, no matter who he’s facing. His battle style has captured the hearts of the people of Galar.


Chairman Rose
Rose is the chairman of the Galar Pokémon League and the president of a large business conglomerate. He’s made the Galar Pokémon League famous by implementing Gym Battles featuring the Dynamax phenomenon. Chairman Rose was also the first to endorse Leon for the Gym Challenge.


Oleana
Oleana is Chairman Rose’s secretary and is known for her calm and collected personality. She also serves as the vice president of Rose’s company and is largely in charge of the day-to-day running of the company.


Bea
Bea is a prodigy in Galar karate, carrying on its century-old traditions and techniques. Known for her stoicism and rarely showing her emotions, Bea is also an expert on Fighting-type Pokémon. Her battle style remains very precise even when she’s backed into a corner.


Allister
Allister is a talented Trainer of Ghost-type Pokémon who has taken on the mantle of the Ghost-type Gym Leader at a young age. He’s extremely shy and fearful, and he always hides his face with a mask when around other people. Allister rarely makes public appearances and apparently spends most of his time around ruins or in cemeteries.

Certain towns in the Galar region will have different Gyms that Trainers can challenge depending on whether they’re playing Pokémon Sword or Pokémon Shield. In Pokémon Sword, they will face down Bea, while in Pokémon Shield, they can test their skills against Allister.

Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield Dual Pack SteelBook® Edition

As a special bonus for purchasing the Dual Pack SteelBook® Edition, Trainers will receive two codes (one per game) that will reward them with special items known as Dynamax Crystals. By using the Dynamax Crystals in the Wild Area, Trainers will be able to face Dynamax Larvitar and Dynamax Jangmo-o, Pokémon that are normally encountered later in the game, in special Max Raid Battles. Larvitar won’t appear in Pokémon Sword and Jangmo-o won’t appear in Pokémon Shield during normal gameplay, but players will be able to catch them in either version by using these Dynamax Crystals.

YouTube Clip - Gigantamaxing Changes the Game in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield!

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhIc6UwnHj8

YouTube Clip - Gigantamaxing Changes the Game in Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield! - Japanese

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzPexjVHF5I